Locking snap buckle

ABSTRACT

The security buckle includes a first body member having one or more walls defining a receiving cavity and one or more mating slots; and a second body member adapted to engage the receiving cavity, the second body member including one or more latching tabs for engaging the one or more mating slots wherein the second body member is inhibited from disengagement while the one or more latching tabs engage the one or more mating slots, and wherein the first body member includes a portion of the one or more walls defining a security slot adapted for receiving an interfering object that includes an engagement mode for insertion and removal from the slot and an interfering mode for inhibiting the one or more latching tabs from disengaging from the one or more mating tabs until the interfering object is transitioned to the engagement mode.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to snap buckles as well as tosystems and methods employing such snap buckles, and more specificallyit relates to configuration of specially adapted snap buckles forimplementation into anti-theft and theft-deterrent systems and methods.

FIG. 1 is a representative plan view of one style of a genericconventional snap buckle 100. Buckle 100 includes a first body member105 that mates to a second body member 110 using a pair of latching tabs115 of member 105 to engage mating complementary mating slots 120 ofmember 110. Member 105 and member 110 each include strap mounting slots125 for attaching straps (not shown) in any number of conventionalarrangements. A central guiding post 130 is usually included in somefashion as an aid in insertion of latching tabs 115 into member 110.Latching tabs 115 are springingly biased into the latching position sothat latching tabs 115 may “squeeze” together during insertion yetpositively latch into mating slots 120 to maintain member 105 inengagement with member 110 as long as latching tabs 115 engage matingslots 120. To disengage member 105 from member 110, latching tabs 115are depressed towards each other (e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage frommating slots 120 and to permit a user to retract member 105 from member110.

There are many different configurations and arrangements for snap buckle100 including use in backpacks, bags, pet collars and with other objectsincluding solutions wherein it is desirable to mate two strap endstogether. There are some configurations including a single latching tabengaging a single mating slot but otherwise the latching principle isthe same. Conventional systems are configured for simple engagement anddisengagement and are not generally contemplated to be part of asecurity system for enhancing anti-theft or theft-deterrence of theobjects or of the “contents” of the object (such as the contents of thebackpack or bag or of the pet).

Most current snaps are not configured to resist tampering or destructionas they predominately address ease of engagement/disengagement andlatching persistence until a user positively desires to disengage.Similarly the straps themselves and any other objects to which thesestraps are affixed are not generally configured with anti-theft/securitysystems in mind. The buckles, straps, bags may be torqued, pulled,compressed, and otherwise manipulated to disengage or defeat thelatching function or in the case of a backpack or bag having an openingwith content ingress/egress control influenced by the strap/buckle(e.g., a fabric fold over the opening secured with the buckle affixed tostraps on the bag and flap) access to the contents may be possible evenwith the buckle components engaged.

What is needed is a buckle system configured for implementation intoanti-theft and theft-deterrent systems and methods.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed is a security buckle and method and systems and methodsemploying the security buckle and methods. The security buckle a firstbody member having one or more walls defining a receiving cavity and oneor more mating slots; and a second body member adapted to engage thereceiving cavity, the second body member including one or more latchingtabs for engaging the one or more mating slots wherein the second bodymember is inhibited from disengagement while the one or more latchingtabs engage the one or more mating slots, and wherein the first bodymember includes a portion of the one or more walls defining a securityslot adapted for receiving an interfering object that includes anengagement mode for insertion and removal from the slot and aninterfering mode for inhibiting the one or more latching tabs fromdisengaging from the one or more mating tabs until the interferingobject is transitioned to the engagement mode. Methods include couplingtwo buckle components together by engaging latching tabs of a securitybuckle into complementary mating slots/apertures and to inhibitdecoupling by interfering with disengagement of the latching tabs.Systems and methods of using this security buckle and securing methodinclude pet and container security systems and methods.

The components, subsystems, and systems and methods describe a securitybuckle and security systems and methods that may be simply andefficiently implemented into anti-theft and theft-deterrent systems andmethods.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a representative plan view of one style of a genericconventional snap buckle;

FIG. 2 is a representative plan view of a first aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle;

FIG. 3 is a representative plan view of a second aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle;

FIG. 4 is a representative plan view of a third aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle;

FIG. 5 is a representative plan view of a fourth aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle;

FIG. 6 is a representative plan view of a first aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a security system;

FIG. 7 is a representative plan view of a second aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a security system;

FIG. 8 is a representative plan view of a generic “snapped” embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a representative plan view of an alternative embodiment forthe present invention;

FIG. 10 is a representative perspective view of another preferredembodiment; and

FIG. 11 is a representative perspective view of a variation of thepreferred embodiment shown in FIG. 10.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skillin the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the contextof a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications tothe preferred embodiment and the generic principles and featuresdescribed herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to theembodiment shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent withthe principles and features described herein.

FIG. 2 is a representative plan view of a first aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle 200.Buckle 200 includes a first body member 205 that mates to a second bodymember 210 using a pair of latching tabs 215 of member 205 to engagecomplementary mating slots 220 of member 210. Member 205 and member 210may each include strap mounting slots 225 for attaching straps (notshown) in any number of conventional arrangements. A central guidingpost 230 may optionally be included in some fashion as an aid ininsertion of latching tabs 215 into member 210. Latching tabs 215 arespringingly biased into the latching position so that latching tabs 215may “squeeze” together during insertion yet positively latch into matingslots 220 to maintain member 205 in engagement with member 210 as longas latching tabs 215 engage mating slots 220. To disengage member 205from member 210, latching tabs 215 are depressed towards each other(e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage from mating slots 220 and to permit auser to retract member 205 from member 210. Additionally, member 210 isprovided with a security slot 250 sized to receive an interfering object(not shown) that extends into member 210 proximate one of latching tabs215 (e.g., between one of tabs 215 and post 230. The interfering objectis adapted to transition between two modes—the first mode permitsengagement/disengagement with security slot 250 and the second moderesists disengagement and also concurrently inhibits transition of theone latching tab 215 into the ‘unlatched’ position. Thus while theinterfering object is engaged through security slot 250 and in thesecond mode, the one latching tab 215 remains latched and member 205 maynot be disengaged from member 210 absent damage or destruction of one ofthe components or portions thereof.

The design and construction of member 205 and 210 is adapted to resistdamage and destruction that could permit disengagement of member 205from member 210. The materials selected and design configuration andinteractions are adapted to not be easily deformed, damaged, ordestroyed. While virtually no system is destruction-proof, emphasizingmaterials and design to resist reasonable (within constraints and designparameters of the particular application) torquing, crushing, pulling,compressive, tension, and/or shearing forces enhances security up to thedesign limits. For example, special crush and tear-resistant plasticsmay be used in the construction. An additional concern for enhancingsecurity could be addition of composites or fibers to preventdeformation and damage to slot 250 and thereby inhibit premature removalof the interfering object.

While it is contemplated that there may be many different types andconfigurations of acceptable interfering objects, with slot 250 adaptedappropriately, a preferred embodiment is use of a MicroSaver® securitysolution provided by Kensington Technology Group, 333 Twin DolphinDrive, Sixth Floor, Redwood Shores, Calif. 94065, or equivalent (detailsregarding the MicroSaver® security solutions and locks are herebyexpressly incorporated by reference for all purposes). This securitysolution provides a rotatable T-bar that may be used as the interferingobject when slot 250 is about three millimeters wide and about sevenmillimeters long. The MicroSaver® security solution includes two modesfor the T-bar with a locking system cooperating with the T-Bar to securethe T-Bar into these modes. A security cable is coupled to the lockingsystem and may thus be used in some embodiments of further localizing alocked buckle 200 to a second object by coupling the security cable tothe second object and using the locking system to secure the T-bar intothe second mode while it engages slot 250 (physical localization may beachieved by this leashing aspect of constraining movement between thesecond object and the buckle by the cable or other localization systemslike motion/alarm system or RFID tags and sensors and the like). This isdescribed in more detail below but the interfering object may be usedwithout the security cable when localization is not required or desiredor used with the security cable when localization is required ordesired.

The Kensington security slot has become a standard security featureprovided in the exterior walls of many electronic and portable devices,such as laptops, personal computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs),and the like. For security systems and products, design andimplementation of appropriate security slots is well-known andadaptation of this security slot for the present invention is wellwithin the skills of a person of ordinary skill in the art. Kensingtonpublishes information on slot specification and use at:http://us.kensington.com/html/1356.html, this information is herebyexpressly incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.The information includes information on clearances and requirements, forexample, among other details. In some cases, the standard includes useof a metal backing behind slot 250 to enhance retention of a MicroSaver®locking system to slot 250. Of course, other interfering objects mayalso be employed in satisfactory manner and are within the scope of thepresent invention.

A further design configuration of a security system using buckle 200 is,when configured for use with straps, is to provide the straps to alsoresist detaching or destruction by torquing, shearing, compressing,and/or tension forces. For example, use of tear and cut-resistant Kevlarfibers in the straps or the like and secure coupling of the straps toslot engagement slots 225 may be appropriate. Note that in some systems,buckle 200 may be employed in a security using a coupling system thatdoes not include straps and the coupler mechanism 225 would be adaptedor removed as appropriate.

FIG. 3 is a representative plan view of a second aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle 300.Buckle 300 includes a first body member 305 that mates to a second bodymember 310 using a pair of latching tabs 215 of member 305 to engagecomplementary mating slots 220 of member 310. Member 305 and member 310are similar to member 205 and member 205, respectively, described aboveregarding FIG. 1 but modified as described later. Member 305 and member310 may each include strap mounting slots 225 for attaching straps (notshown) in any number of conventional arrangements. A central guidingpost 315 is included as an aid in insertion of latching tabs 215 intomember 310 and also to retain latching tabs 215 in the latched position.Latching tabs 215 are springingly biased into the latching position sothat latching tabs 215 may “squeeze” together during insertion yetpositively latch into mating slots 220 to maintain member 305 inengagement with member 310 as long as latching tabs 215 engage matingslots 220. To disengage member 305 from member 310, latching tabs 215are depressed towards each other (e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage frommating slots 220 and to permit a user to retract member 305 from member310. Additionally, member 310 is provided with security slot 250 asdiscussed above but positioned for a slightly different function.

Post 315 is a fork having a pair of tines and slot 250 is positioned sothat the interfering object (not shown) may be inserted between thetines. The interfering object in this configuration transitions thetines of post 315 between a first mode (as shown in FIG. 2) and to asecond mode that spreads the tines and inhibits transition of latchingtabs 215 from disengagement from mating slots 220. The interferingobject in this aspect indirectly interferes with latching tabs 215 incontrast to direct interference with one or more of latching tabs 215 asshown in FIG. 2. As previously discussed, the interfering object isadapted to transition between two modes—the first mode permitsengagement/disengagement with security slot 250 and the second moderesists disengagement and also concurrently inhibits transition oflatching tabs 215 into the ‘unlatched’ position by the interactions ofthe interfering object and the tines of post 315. Thus while theinterfering object is engaged through security slot 250 and in thesecond mode, the latching tabs 215 remains latched and member 305 maynot be disengaged from member 310 absent damage or destruction of one ofthe components or portions thereof. In other respects, buckle 300 andthe types of interfering objects are as described above in thediscussion of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a representative plan view of a third aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle 400.Buckle 400 includes a first body member 405 that mates to a second bodymember 310 using a pair of latching tabs 215 of member 405 to engagecomplementary mating slots 220 of member 310. Member 405 is similar tomember 205 and member 305 described above in connection with FIG. 2 andFIG. 3. Member 310 is also described above in FIG. 3. Member 405 andmember 310 may each include strap mounting slots 225 for attachingstraps (not shown) in any number of conventional arrangements. Thecentral guiding post (e.g., post 215 and post 315) are omitted from body405, however some stub of this post may be provided when the function isstructural and not just for guiding. Latching tabs 215 are springinglybiased into the latching position so that latching tabs 215 may“squeeze” together during insertion yet positively latch into matingslots 220 to maintain member 405 in engagement with member 310 as longas latching tabs 215 engage mating slots 220. To disengage member 405from member 310, latching tabs 215 are depressed towards each other(e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage from mating slots 220 and to permit auser to retract member 405 from member 310. Additionally, member 310 isprovided with security slot 250 as discussed above in FIG. 3.

With the central guiding post removed (or shortened—not shown), theinterfering object in this configuration transitions directly interfereswith latching tabs 215 in contrast to the indirect interference with oneor more of latching tabs 215 as shown in FIG. 3. As previouslydiscussed, the interfering object is adapted to transition between twomodes—the first mode permits engagement/disengagement with security slot250 and the second mode resists disengagement and also concurrentlyinhibits transition of latching tabs 215 into the ‘unlatched’ positionby the interactions of the interfering object proximate to latching tabs215. Thus while the interfering object is engaged through security slot250 and in the second mode, the latching tabs 215 remains latched andmember 305 may not be disengaged from member 310 absent damage ordestruction of one of the components or portions thereof. In otherrespects, buckle 400 and the types of interfering objects are asdescribed above in the discussion of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a representative plan view of a fourth aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a two-piece lanyard release snap buckle 500.Buckle 500 includes first body member 405 as shown in FIG. 4 above thatmates to a second body member 505 using a pair of latching tabs 215 ofmember 405 to engage complementary mating slots 220 of member 505.Member 505 is similar to member 210 and member 310 described above inconnection with FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4. Member 405 and member 505may each include strap mounting slots 225 for attaching straps (notshown) in any number of conventional arrangements. Latching tabs 215 arespringingly biased into the latching position so that latching tabs 215may “squeeze” together during insertion yet positively latch into matingslots 220 to maintain member 405 in engagement with member 505 as longas latching tabs 215 engage mating slots 220. To disengage member 405from member 505, latching tabs 215 are depressed towards each other(e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage from mating slots 220 and to permit auser to retract member 405 from member 505.

Member 505 differs from member 210 and 310 in several ways includingintegration of a lock 510 incorporating interfering member 515. In thisembodiment, lock 510 may include a “dial” configuration so that movementof an exterior portion (e.g., rotation) rotates interfering member 515to inhibit latching tabs 215 when in the second mode as described above.(The modes are similar to described above except in this embodiment theinterfering object is not inserted and/or removed as it is integratedinto member 505.) That is, when lock 510 positions interfering object515 into the first mode, latching tabs 215 may be depressed together forunlatching as interfering member 515 is in the first mode and doesinhibit the unlatching. When the lock positions interfering object 515into the second mode, latching tabs 215 may not be depressed and member405 is secured to member 505. In some instances, it may still bedesirable to employ a locking and/or localizing feature in which casesecurity slot 250 may also be included. Advantageously, shoulddimensions of lock 510 and other arrangement permit, providing for theT-bar of the MicroSaver® lock to interfere with interfering member 515is one way to achieve positive keyed/combination locking withlocalization (e.g., the security cable). The T-bar in one position isinserted/removed from slot 250 and in the other position it resistsremoval and prevents transition of interfering member 515 back to thefirst mode. In other respects, buckle 500 and the types of interferingobjects are as described above in the discussion of FIG. 2, FIG. 3, andFIG. 4.

While the interfering member has been described above as an anti-theftsystem, use of an interfering object may also serve in some instances asa control to enhance positive latching and to prevent inadvertentunlatching. In this case, the interfering member may not include alocking system to positively inhibit transition of the interferingmember from the second mode back to the first absent key or combinationbut serves more as a simple detent that must be transitioned beforeunlatching occurs.

FIG. 6 is a representative plan view of a first aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a security system 600. System 600 includes asecurity buckle 605 coupled to a securing subsystem 610 (e.g., straps)and a locking subsystem 615. Security buckle 605 is a latching andlocking buckle that may be inhibited from unlatching by use of aninterfering member, such as for example as described above in thecontext of FIG. 2 through FIG. 5. Securing subsystem is used toretain/control an object or access to an object or to a cavity within anobject. In this particular exemplary case, securing subsystem 610 is acollar (or with use of optional buckle 620 a harness) for a pet such asfor example a dog or a cat optionally including one or more securitystraps. As discussed above, it may be desirable to provide straps usedin securing subsystem 610 with a tear/cut resistance construction suchas inclusion of Kevlar or similar fibers, threads, and/or cables.Additionally special stitching or other configuration to prevent orinhibit removal of a strap end from coupling with buckle 605 (e.g.,rivets, studs, or heat/chemical-processing to integrate the coupling)may be desirable.

Locking subsystem 615 may include a MicroSaver® lock as described abovein the discussion of FIG. 2 through FIG. 5, or other similar system.Locking subsystem 615 includes an interfering member 625 (e.g., a T-barand cooperating pin-plate or other similar system) a housing 630supporting interfering member 625 and a locking system controllingtransition of interfering member 625 between a first mode and a secondmode responsive to a control (e.g., a key 635 or combination for acombination lock). In the first mode interfering member engages securitybuckle 605 as described above when buckle members are latched together.In the second mode, when so engaged, interfering member 625 operates toinhibit unlatching until interfering member 615 is transitioned to thefirst mode and, in some cases, disengaged from security buckle 605.

Locking subsystem 615 includes in some cases a localization feature(e.g., a security cable 640 terminating in a closed loop 645 sized sothat the combination of interfering member 625 and housing 630 may passtherethrough. When cable 640 is wrapped around a second object OBJ, forexample a tree or other difficult to move object) and housing 630 ispassed through loop 645, locking subsystem 615 is localized (e.g.,tethered) physically to second object OBJ. Engaging locking subsystem615 to security buckle 605 thereby localizes system 600 to second objectOBJ and therefore localizes the pet collared by securing subsystem 610to second object OBJ as long as system 600 is so configured. Using key635 provides further inhibition of unauthorized removal of the pet asthe securing subsystem 610 may not be removed or delocalized untillocking subsystem 615 is disengaged or system 600 is defeated. Thussystem 600 provides a simple and efficient solution for pet owners thatare required or desire to leave their pet unattended for short periods,such as when entering a retail or commercial location prohibiting pets.

It is often the case that collars (and harnesses) are provided includinga certain degree of adjustment for neck/body circumferencecustomization. A preferred mode for a security collar (or harness) is toprovide for limited adjustment by allowing limited but moveableadjustment of one of the security straps. For example, one end of asecurity strap may be free and permit sliding through a strap couplerwithin a limited range so that different neck sizes may be accommodatedas desired but a fully lengthened collar is sufficiently short not toslip over a head of the protected animal. One way to limit this range ofmotion is to have a sliding coupling system in which the free end isdoubled over or otherwise adapted to not fit through the strap coupler.

Of course, when securing subsystem 610 is adapted for other objects, oraccess to objects, similar inhibition against delocalization or accessto these other objects is possible and contemplated by the presentinvention. Such as, for example, the system shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 is a representative plan view of a second aspect of the presentinvention incorporated into a security system 700. System 700 includessecurity buckle 605 (shown and described in the context of FIG. 6)coupled to a securing subsystem 705 (e.g., a purse, bag, backpack, andthe like) and locking subsystem 615 (also shown and described in FIG.6). Security buckle 605 is a latching and locking buckle that may beinhibited from unlatching by use of an interfering member, such as forexample as described above in the context of FIG. 2 through FIG. 5.Securing subsystem 705 is used to retain/control an object or access toan object or to a cavity within an object. In this particular exemplarycase, securing subsystem 705 is a briefcase having a body 710 with wallsdefining an interior cavity for storing objects such as files,documents, and the like that is accessed through an opening. A flap 715cooperates with body 710 for covering and closing the opening. In apreferred embodiment, contents of bag 710 are only accessible throughthe opening and only accessible through the opening when flap 715 isopen. A first security strap 720 couples a portion of bag 710 to oneoperable body member of security buckle 605 and a second security strap725 couples a portion of flap 715 to the other operable body member ofsecurity buckle 605. As discussed above, it may be desirable to providethe straps used in system 700 with a tear/cut resistance constructionsuch as inclusion of Kevlar or similar fibers, threads, and/or cables.Additionally special stitching or other configuration to prevent orinhibit removal of a strap end from coupling with buckle 605 (e.g.,rivets, studs, or heat/chemical-processing to integrate the coupling)may be desirable in some instances.

Locking subsystem 615 may include a MicroSaver® lock as described abovein the discussion of FIG. 2 through FIG. 6, or other similar system.Locking subsystem 615 includes an interfering member 625 (e.g., a T-barand cooperating pin-plate or other similar system) a housing 630supporting interfering member 625 and a locking system controllingtransition of interfering member 625 between a first mode and a secondmode responsive to a control (e.g., a key 635 or combination for acombination lock). In the first mode interfering member engages securitybuckle 605 as described above when buckle members are latched together.In the second mode, when so engaged, interfering member 625 operates toinhibit unlatching until interfering member 615 is transitioned to thefirst mode and, in some cases, disengaged from security buckle 605.

Locking subsystem 615 includes in some cases a localization feature(e.g., a security cable 640 terminating in a closed loop 645 sized sothat the combination of interfering member 625 and housing 630 may passtherethrough. When cable 640 is wrapped around a second object OBJ, forexample an eyehook or the like fixed to a wall of library or the like)and housing 630 is passed through loop 645, locking subsystem 615 islocalized (e.g., tethered) physically to second object OBJ. Engaginglocking subsystem 615 to security buckle 605 thereby localizes system700 to second object OBJ and therefore localizes bag 710 and itscontents by securing subsystem 705 to second object OBJ as long assystem 700 is so configured. Using key 635 provides further inhibitionof unauthorized removal of bag 710 or its contents as the securingsubsystem 610 may not be removed or delocalized until locking subsystem615 is disengaged or system 700 is defeated. Thus system 700 provides asimple and efficient solution for owners that are required or desire toleave their bag unattended for short periods, such as when accessingreference materials in a library or attending meetings in an office orstanding in a queue at a delicatessen or the like.

It is often the case that containers are provided including a certaindegree of adjustment for volume customization. A preferred mode for asecurity container is to provide for limited adjustment by allowinglimited but moveable adjustment of one of the security straps. Forexample, one end of a security strap may be free and permit slidingthrough a strap coupler within a limited range so that differentcontainer volumes may be accommodated as desired but a fully expandedcontainer is sufficiently closed to not permit access to the containercontents when the flap is closed and latched. One way to limit thisrange of motion is to have a sliding coupling system in which the freeend is doubled over or otherwise adapted to not fit through the strapcoupler.

For young school children, it is not uncommon to have them use bookbagsand bagpacks to move and store objects. As classrooms become full,having suitable space for all children to bring their bags into classbecomes increasingly difficult. As a consequence, it is not uncommon formany reasons, including the space reason, to provide bag hooks outsidethe classroom to permit each child to hang the bag. A variation of thesecurity system described herein provides a makeshift securitysystem/portable locker system improving this situation by reducing arisk of theft or vandalism for the bags and bag contents left outsideand relatively less supervised or unsupervised.

An array of eyebolts or other suitable engagement systems are disposedoutside the classroom door. Each bag includes a security buckle, andselected other security features (e.g., cut-resistant straps,cut-resistant bag material and the like) to tether a bag to a particulareyebolt, and to secure the bag closed using a key or combination. Eachchild may access/move their bag while inhibiting theft or contentvandalism by other. In some instances, it may be desirable to provide anadmin masterkey or master combination to enable an administrator to movea bag and/or check and/or access contents of a bag. Thus the school neednot invest in lockers or locker systems.

FIG. 8 is a representative plan view of a generic “snapped” embodiment800 and represents any of the snap fastener (e.g., side, front, otherbuckle style) in a generic view. FIG. 9 is a representative plan view ofan alternative embodiment for the present invention of a security buckle900 interfacing with a modified version of the embodiment 800. Securitybuckle 900 includes a cover door 905 pivoting about an axis 910 andincluding a security slot 915. Many of the embodiments described aboveprovide for a direct interference with the locking members, preventingor inhibiting operation of exposed locking members.

Buckle 900 is an alternative class of solution as it provides cover door905 to prevent access to one or more locking members and thus themembers may not be manipulated or operated to release the buckle. Inbuckle 900, cover door moves (e.g., swings about axis 910 though othersystems may be used to hinge, slide, rotate, or reposition cover doorbetween an exposing mode and a covering mode). FIG. 9 illustrates thecovering mode wherein door cover 905 covers the locking members,preventing/inhibiting operation. The manner and degree to which doorcover 905 covers or inhibits/prevents operation depends upon the desireddegree of security and resource cost.

Door cover 910 includes security slot 915 which serves to hold coverdoor 905 in the covering mode and inhibiting movement to the exposedmode as long as an appropriate locking system engages security slot 915.Additionally, for solutions that desired localization, the lockingsystem may include a localization tether which also maintains the buckle900 (and any apparatus to which it is attached) localized based upon thelocalization system (cable, hard-tether, or electronic tether (alarm,motion detector, RFID tag/reader systems, and the like). As long as door905 remains closed, buckle 900 is in the covered mode and buckle 900remains latched and secured. Unlocking the locking system (e.g.,removing the Microsaver product) from slot 915 enables buckle 900 totransition to the exposing mode and the locking arms may be operated todisengage the components of buckle 900.

As also described above, different latching systems suggest differentdoor 905 configurations may be appropriate. Further, in some instances alatching system may be used to temporarily hold door 905 in place toinhibit transition of door 905 to the exposed mode (e.g., a thumbwheelor other element holding (without keyed (combo or key) locking) of door905 in the covered mode. In some instances, slot may not be in coverdoor 905 but otherwise operable to inhibit transition from the coveringmode to the exposing mode.

FIG. 10 is a representative perspective view of another preferredembodiment for a security buckle 1000.

Buckle 1000 is similar to buckle 200 shown in FIG. 2, withmodifications. Buckle 1000 includes first body member 205 that mates tosecond body member 210 using pair of latching tabs 215 of member 205 toengage complementary mating slots 220 of member 210. Member 205 andmember 210 may each include strap mounting slots 225 for attachingstraps (not shown) in any number of conventional arrangements. Centralguiding post 230 may optionally be included in some fashion as an aid ininsertion of latching tabs 215 into member 210. Latching tabs 215 arespringingly biased into the latching position so that latching tabs 215may “squeeze” together during insertion yet positively latch into matingslots 220 to maintain member 205 in engagement with member 210 as longas latching tabs 215 engage mating slots 220. To disengage member 205from member 210, latching tabs 215 are depressed towards each other(e.g., “squeezed”) to disengage from mating slots 220 and to permit auser to retract member 205 from member 210. Additionally, member 210 isprovided with an aperture sized to receive an interfering object (e.g.,a shackle of a padlock P though virtually any suitable rigid objectcould be passed through aperture 1005) that extends into member 210proximate one of latching tabs 215 (e.g., between one of tabs 215 andpost 230. Interfering object P includes two modes—the first mode passesthrough aperture 1005 and the second mode is disengaged from buckle1000. The first mode, particularly in the disclosed configuration whenthe interfering object is a shackle and the shackle is locked into thepadlock, resists disengagement and also concurrently inhibits transitionof the one latching tab 215 into the ‘unlatched’ position. Thus whilethe interfering object is engaged through aperture 1005 and in the firstmode, the one latching tab 215 remains latched and member 205 may not bedisengaged from member 210 absent damage or destruction of one of thecomponents or portions thereof. In this embodiment, a chain or otherobject or a tethering system may also engage the shackle to provide alocalizing system when necessary or desirable. Such as providing asubstitute for the cable of the Microsaver® system discussed herein.

The design and construction of member 205 and 210 is adapted to resistdamage and destruction that could permit disengagement of member 205from member 210. The materials selected and design configuration andinteractions are adapted to not be easily deformed, damaged, ordestroyed. While virtually no system is destruction-proof, emphasizingmaterials and design to resist reasonable (within constraints and designparameters of the particular application) torquing, crushing, pulling,compressive, tension, and/or shearing forces enhances security up to thedesign limits. For example, special crush and tear-resistant plasticsand design may be used in the construction. An additional concern forenhancing security could be addition of composites or fibers to preventdeformation and damage to aperture 1005 and thereby inhibit prematureremoval of the interfering object.

While it is contemplated that there may be many different types andconfigurations of acceptable interfering objects, with aperture 1005adapted appropriately, a preferred embodiment is use of a padlock (keyedor keyless including biometric locking systems), or equivalent.

A further design configuration of a security system using buckle 1000is, when configured for use with straps, is to provide the straps toalso resist detaching or destruction by torquing, shearing, compressing,and/or tension forces. For example, use of tear and cut-resistant Kevlar(or other composite) fibers in the straps or the like and securecoupling of the straps to slot engagement slots 225 may be appropriate.Note that in some systems, buckle 1000 may be employed in a securityembodiment using a coupling system that does not include straps and thecoupler mechanism 225 would be adapted or removed as appropriate.

FIG. 11 is a representative perspective view of a security buckle 1100being a variation of buckle 1000 shown in FIG. 10. Buckle 1100 includesa different placement for an aperture 1105 in member 210. Aperture 1105is centrally positioned to match an aperture/hole/slot 110 in guidepost230. Aperture 1105 and aperture 1110 have co-axial elements when the twobuckle portions are “snapped” together (e.g., engaged) in the lockingposition. An interfering member (e.g., a shackle of a padlock P or thelike) is passed through the aligned apertures 1105 and 1110 and resistseparation of the buckle portions as long as such condition exists. Inthis scenario, it is not required that the latching system be inhibitedfrom de-latching as the interfering object maintains the latching statusof the buckle portions. As long as the interfering object is passedthrough the aligned aperture, security buckle 1100 remains locked. Likethe embodiment shown in FIG. 10, a cable, tether, or other localizingsystem may be incorporated, integrated, or used in cooperation with theinterfering object to localize a locked security buckle 1100 to anotherobject as disclosed herein.

In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, suchas examples of components and/or methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present invention. One skilled inthe relevant art will recognize, however, that an embodiment of theinvention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details,or with other apparatus, systems, assemblies, methods, components,materials, parts, and/or the like. In other instances, well-knownstructures, materials, or operations are not specifically shown ordescribed in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of embodiments of thepresent invention. In some cases, the security buckles described may beincorporated into child safety harnesses to inhibit the child fromself-releasing the fastening system prematurely. The embodiments shownand described above, such as solutions without the tether, may be used,for example, in the child seat harnesses while with a tetheringsub-system may be appropriate, for example, for use in child walkingharnesses.

In some cases, the embodiments or claims have used a term “slot” whichis not taken to be limited to (unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise) a non-round aperture 3 mm×7 mm generally rectangular slot.Other slot shapes (including circular apertures) are possible in somecircumstances.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “anembodiment”, or “a specific embodiment” means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentis included in at least one embodiment of the present invention and notnecessarily in all embodiments. Thus, respective appearances of thephrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”, or “in a specificembodiment” in various places throughout this specification are notnecessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, theparticular features, structures, or characteristics of any specificembodiment of the present invention may be combined in any suitablemanner with one or more other embodiments. It is to be understood thatother variations and modifications of the embodiments of the presentinvention described and illustrated herein are possible in light of theteachings herein and are to be considered as part of the spirit andscope of the present invention.

It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted inthe drawings/figures can also be implemented in a more separated orintegrated manner, or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certaincases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. It isalso within the spirit and scope of the present invention to implement aprogram or code that can be stored in a machine-readable medium topermit a computer to perform any of the methods described above.

Additionally, any signal arrows in the drawings/Figures should beconsidered only as exemplary, and not limiting, unless otherwisespecifically noted. Furthermore, the term “or” as used herein isgenerally intended to mean “and/or” unless otherwise indicated.Combinations of components or steps will also be considered as beingnoted, where terminology is foreseen as rendering the ability toseparate or combine is unclear.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,“a”, “an”, and “the” includes plural references unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein andthroughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and“on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The foregoing description of illustrated embodiments of the presentinvention, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intendedto be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formsdisclosed herein. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, theinvention are described herein for illustrative purposes only, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the spirit and scope of thepresent invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognizeand appreciate. As indicated, these modifications may be made to thepresent invention in light of the foregoing description of illustratedembodiments of the present invention and are to be included within thespirit and scope of the present invention.

Thus, while the present invention has been described herein withreference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification,various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoingdisclosures, and it will be appreciated that in some instances somefeatures of embodiments of the invention will be employed without acorresponding use of other features without departing from the scope andspirit of the invention as set forth. Therefore, many modifications maybe made to adapt a particular situation or material to the essentialscope and spirit of the present invention. It is intended that theinvention not be limited to the particular terms used in followingclaims and/or to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best modecontemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the inventionwill include any and all embodiments and equivalents falling within thescope of the appended claims. Thus, the scope of the invention is to bedetermined solely by the appended claims.

1. A security release buckle, comprising: a first body member having oneor more walls defining a receiving cavity and one or more mating slots;and a second body member adapted to engage said receiving cavity, saidsecond body member including one or more latching tabs for engaging saidone or more mating slots wherein said second body member is inhibitedfrom disengagement while said one or more latching tabs engage said oneor more mating slots, and wherein said first body member includes aportion of said one or more walls defining a security slot adapted forreceiving an interfering object that includes an engagement mode forinsertion and removal from said slot and an interfering mode forinhibiting said one or more latching tabs from disengaging from said oneor more mating slots until said interfering object is transitioned tosaid engagement mode.
 2. The buckle of claim 1 wherein said body membersinclude structural composite fillers for enhancing resistance toengagement failures due to torsion, compression, tension, and shearingof one or more component.
 3. The buckle of claim 1 further comprising:one or more strap engagement couplers included with each body member;and a security strap coupled to each strap engagement coupler.
 4. Thebuckle of claim 3 wherein said security strap includes lengthwiseanti-shear fibers.
 5. A buckling method, the method comprising: a)engaging a first body member having one or more latching tabs into anengagement receiving cavity of a second body having one or more matingslots compatible with said one or more latching tabs wherein said firstbody member remains engaged with second body member until said one ormore latching tabs disengage said one or more mating slots; and b)interfering with said disengagement of said one or more latching tabsfrom said one or more mating slots to inhibit disengagement of saidfirst body member from said second body member wherein said interferingstep includes inserting an object into said second body whereininsertion of said object inhibits disengagement as long as said objectremains inserted into said second body.